Challenges and Compliance with EU Acquis in the Procurement Sector: A Critical Analysis of Public Procurement and Contracting in Albania Entela Abdul

This study examines the evolution and current landscape of public procurement and contracting within Albania. Central and local governments heavily rely on these processes for the implementation of investments, delivery of public services, and satisfaction of public necessities. Yet distinct from its European counterparts, Albania does not possess a well-established tradition in formulating and adhering to public procurement rules and procedures. The frequent modifications in legislation have posed a multitude of challenges within institutional practices related to public procurements and contracts, resulting in a lack of uniformity across different entities in upholding procedural norms. The process and need for legal reforms and alterations in procurement regulations in Albania are driven by an intent to align and standardize with international directives and the acquis Communautaire. The procurement legislation aims to foster an environment conducive to the efficient administration and management of public funds while simultaneously promoting competition, ensuring equal treatment, preventing discrimination, enhancing transparency, and bolstering public confidence. Consequently, this research aims to scrutinize the legal reforms and critically assess the complications encountered within the public procurement sector. It focuses on the impact of these issues on the successful completion of procurement procedures, which are vital to the provision of public services, the facilitation of investments, and the broader economic sustainable development and progression of the country. In light of the examination of both legal reforms and institutional practices, as well as the identification of prevalent issues within the procurement process, this study raises two key research questions: Is Albania prepared for the implementation of procurement laws in line with international directives and the acquis Communautaire? What procedural and legal strategies must public institutions implement to prevent illicit activities by Economic Operators competing in tenders?